Last Thursday evening in Tampa, close to Brandon, Florida, a resident of a multifamily building returned to her apartment and found a small bat clinging to a wall in her living space. Upon discovering the animal, the resident contacted the building’s emergency after-hours service, which routed the call to WellTech. Thomas Tellez, the account manager for the Tampa region and an individual with prior experience in wildlife management, was available and took the call.
Arriving at the apartment, Thomas located the bat on an interior wall. He observed that it was a juvenile, characterized by its smaller size and proportionally larger ears. Thomas carefully detached the baby bat from the wall and placed into a green towel. Immediately after stepping outside the apartment unit, he released the bat into the evening air.
Following the bat’s removal, Thomas conducted an inspection of the apartment to identify how the animal might have entered. He located a few small openings. Thomas temporarily sealed these areas to prevent immediate reentry and informed the building’s maintenance department of these potential access points, recommending that they be properly sealed to avoid future incidents.
Hantavirus, responsible for potentially fatal conditions like Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) and Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS), underscores the vulnerability of certain populations. The young, elderly, and immunocompromised face heightened risks from such infections. However, Hantavirus is merely one piece of a much larger, more concerning puzzle.
Rodents are known vectors for a staggering 35 different diseases worldwide, according to the Florida Department of Health. Transmission can occur through direct contact, contaminated feces, urine, saliva, or even through bites from infected ticks, mites, and fleas. (https://www.floridahealth.gov/environmental-health/rodents/index.html).
Among the more common rodent-borne illnesses is leptospirosis, a bacterial infection spread through the urine of infected animals. The CDC reports a million human cases of leptospirosis globally each year, highlighting the widespread nature of this threat (https://www.cdc.gov/leptospirosis/about/index.html). Other diseases include histoplasmosis, lymphocytic choriomeningitis, plague, rat bite fever, tularemia, and salmonellosis.
In Florida, WellTech Pest Solutions has reported a concerning increase in rodent activity across the state. This surge elevates the risk of disease transmission, particularly in densely populated areas like multifamily housing complexes. The potential for widespread illness underscores the critical need for proactive pest management strategies.
The implications for multifamily housing managers are significant. The health and well-being of residents are paramount, and the presence of rodents poses a serious threat to both. Preventing rodent infestations is not merely a matter of property maintenance; it is a matter of public health.
Effective rodent control involves a multi-pronged approach. Prevention is key. This includes maintaining clean sites, particularly around trash areas, installing rodent bait stations to prevent entry and nesting, and implementing exclusion work to seal potential entry points. These measures can prevent costly cleanups and remediation efforts, and most importantly, protect residents from illness. The rising rodent activity across Florida demands a heightened awareness and a proactive response. It’s not just about addressing the immediate nuisance; it’s about safeguarding the health of communities. By implementing comprehensive pest management strategies, multifamily housing managers can play a crucial role in mitigating the risks associated with rodent-borne diseases.
The case of Betsy Arakawa Hackman’s passing, while tragic, serves as a poignant reminder that unseen threats can have devastating consequences. The focus on Hantavirus should not overshadow the broader issue of rodent-borne diseases. By prioritizing prevention and partnering with experienced pest control professionals, we can create safer, healthier living environments for all.
Spring is in the air, and unfortunately, so are termites! As we approach Termite Awareness Week, March 2nd-8th, 2025, it’s crucial for property managers and residents alike to understand the risks these pests pose. While the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) and the Professional Pest Management Alliance (PPMA) spearhead this vital initiative, WellTech Pest Solutions, LLC, Is equally committed to protecting Florida properties.
Termites can cause significant damage to multifamily housing, impacting property value and resident safety. Recognizing this, we’re dedicated to providing effective termite management solutions across Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Hernando, and many more Florida counties. As active members of BAAA, AAGO, FCAA, and FPMA, we understand the unique needs of apartment communities.
Prevention is your first line of defense. Look for telltale signs: mud tubes along foundation walls, discarded wings near windows, and hollow-sounding wood. If you spot these, immediate action is essential. Don’t wait for extensive damage to occur.
During Termite Awareness Week, take the time to educate your residents. Share information on preventative measures and the importance of professional inspections. At WellTech Pest Solutions, we offer comprehensive termite inspections and tailored treatment plans to safeguard your investment. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and ensure your property remains termite-free. Let’s work together to protect your community.
Find out more about termites, navigate to the Termite Page.
John Wells, VP of WellTech Pest Solutions, LLC and Smokey, Director of Tail Wagging and Batman Enthusiast.
Smokey’s story began in the shadows, a tiny pup born to a rescued mother, his world immediately clouded by an infection that swelled one eye, pushing it outward in a painful protrusion. Vets, with the best intentions, recommended removal. To many, he was an unwanted dog, a flawed creature destined for a difficult life.
But Lisa Wells saw something different. She saw a spark, a flicker of resilience in the tiny, suffering animal. Lisa, wife of John Wells, VP of WellTech Pest Solutions, LLC, took Smokey and was determined to give him a chance. Weeks of patient care followed, a ritual of gentle hands and medicinal ointments, applied with unwavering love.
Days turned into weeks, and a miracle unfolded. The infection began to recede, the swelling subsided, and Smokey’s eye, against all odds, began to heal. The protrusion was corrected. The vets were astonished. Smokey, the pup destined for surgery, had defied expectations.
John and Lisa, their hearts overflowing, couldn’t imagine parting with the little fighter. They adopted Smokey, giving him a forever home filled with warmth and affection. And Smokey, with his one smokey eye and his one perfectly bright eye, repaid their kindness with boundless love and unwavering loyalty.
When Smokey greets visitors with his happy tail wags and gentle nuzzles, it’s a reminder that beauty isn’t always perfect. Smokey, the dog once deemed unwanted, serves as a beacon of hope and resilience. His story is a heartstring tugging reminder that second chances can bring the most beautiful outcomes.
These photos show our happy “unofficial mascot” as happy as ever! Photos were taken February 17, 2025. Happy Throwback Thursday Everyone!
The erratic weather patterns plaguing our region are creating a perfect storm for pest infestations, leading to significant property manager headaches. Across the board, we are experiencing higher-than-average temperatures juxtaposed with cooler, drying weather. This bouncing effect, while pleasant for shaking off winter chills, is profoundly unfavorable to our pest conditions. As temperatures rise, pests initiate their pre-emergence growth for the summer months. However, when the warmth that spurred their activity suddenly vanishes, they seek refuge. This is when our families find unwanted guests in their living space, escaping the sudden chills.
This unpredictable climate is particularly impacting multifamily living areas affected, where pest control becomes a complex, shared responsibility. The increase in pest activity is not just anecdotal; across the Bay, we’re seeing a startling 37% earlier-than-usual reporting of Drywood Termites, and an astonishing 24% higher Subterranean Termite infestation. Drywood Termites and Subterranean Termites are exceptionally aggressive this year, so it’s crucial to be vigilant and proactive in establishing a strong pest control defense.
The fluctuating temperatures create an environment where pests are constantly searching for stable conditions, leading them to invade homes, condominiums, and apartments. This heightened activity translates into more frequent resident complaints, increased maintenance costs, and potential structural damage. Property managers are facing the challenge of coordinating rapid and effective pest control measures to maintain resident satisfaction and protect their investments. Regular inspections, preventative treatments, and educating residents on pest prevention are essential components of a comprehensive pest management strategy during this challenging period.
WellTech Pest Solutions, LLC has nearly 40 years of pest and wildlife management experience and features a network of solutions designed exclusively for multifamily properties. WellTech controls pests through a preventative service program that saves you and your residents from pest breeding, growth and colonization. If there is ever an outbreak, our teams are mobilized and responsive.
Find out more about termites, navigate to the Termite Page.
